President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has awarded $100,000 to each of the 12 players of Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, and $50,000 to each member of their technical crew following their historic fifth consecutive title win at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship in Côte d’Ivoire.
The announcement was made at a Presidential Reception held at the State House, Abuja, in honour of the team upon their return from Abidjan, where they defeated Mali 78–64 at the Palais des Sports de Treichville.
Representing the President at the event, Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima lauded the team’s spirit, unity, and tactical brilliance, calling them symbols of national excellence and pride.
“You have conquered Africa 78 to 64. It’s a declaration, not only of your tactical superiority but of your reading of the game and your wariness,” he said. “And I assure you, you go forth with the blessings and support of the entire nation.”
The Vice President described the players as national ambassadors who fought with resilience, especially after trailing in the first quarter of the final match.
“My dear daughters, you fought back from behind not with panic, but with poise. You wore the green and white not just as clothes, but as a symbol of unity—and now you wear the crown as kings of African basketball for the fifth consecutive time,” he said.
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who hosted the reception, praised the team for their commitment, teamwork, and representation of the Nigerian spirit. She acknowledged the importance of their victory, coming shortly after the recent triumph of the Super Falcons.
“We haven’t really gotten over that, and then this one. We are so glad to be able to celebrate you as well,” she said. “You embody courage and commitment. I pray your journey in life continues to be filled with success and light.”
She also congratulated Coach Rena Wakama for her effective leadership, saying, “Your leadership and tutelage have paid off.”
Captain of D’Tigress, Annie Okonkwo, expressed gratitude to the President and First Lady, stating, “It is a thing of pride for us to represent the nation. I do not think the sky is our limit. I believe we can go beyond that.”
In addition to the cash rewards, each team member and official was gifted a flat and conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
The reception reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to sports development and the recognition of Nigerian athletes who bring glory to the nation.
